Use Stone From Our Masonry Supply to Complement Your Naturalistic Landscape Design in Lancaster, PA

December 4, 2019 Stephanie D

If your clients’ idea of a backyard paradise is a natural landscape filled with plants, rocks, and boulders arranged in random yet artful ways, then you’re about to be delighted at the many ways to use stone from our masonry supply to complement your naturalistic landscape design in Lancaster, PA.

In an increasingly urbanized world, it’s important to bring ourselves as close to nature as possible, and there’s no better place to start than the backyard.

When most people think of natural stone in landscapes, they probably envision rock gardens or natural water features such as waterfalls or streams. This is a great starting point for creating a more naturalistic landscape. Virtually any masonry feature can use the addition of natural stone to integrate it into its surroundings.

Even an ordinary outdoor fireplace kit can be enhanced with natural stone to soften its look and integrate it into the landscape. Adding a rough-hewn limestone hearth is one way to customize a kit fireplace.

Installing a waterfall is one of those “I wish I’d done this sooner!” ideas that adds tranquility along with unparalleled visual interest. Choosing the stones for a waterfall lets you unleash your creativity, whether you use natural cut stone, river rock, boulders, or specially manufactured concrete - or a combination of these materials. The selection and placement of materials not only changes the visual impact of the waterfall, but also its acoustic properties. Water running over round river rock will produce a completely different sound than water falling from one horizontal surface onto another. The beauty of mixing materials is that even a man-made waterfall can be made to look wholly naturalistic.

Privacy is important in a backyard getaway. A boring privacy fence doesn’t do much except make the backyard feel boxed in, but a masonry wall provides a lot of visual interest as well as an opportunity to adorn the wall with built-in planters, landscape lighting, and even built-in seating. If you’re using manufactured stone for a privacy wall, consider adding a few randomly placed natural stones to break up the linear look and add a touch of whimsy.

Crushed stone or stepping stone walkways are a softer approach to getting from here to there. Along the way, using light-colored pea gravel instead of mulch is a way to highlight flowers and shrubs while also doing away with the annual hassle of replacing dried-out mulch. Crushed or various small-diameter stones can also be used under fountains or benches.

Fist-sized river rock placed at the base of a tree highlights the bark’s texture and makes the tree into a “living sculpture.”

Artfully placed boulders bring visual interest to a landscape. Larger boulders invite climbing and play. Placed right in the middle of an expanse of lawn, a trio of boulders makes an ordinary material into a sculptural element.

Construct a stone bench from slabs of granite or other less porous stone (avoid the use of flagstone unless it is sealed). Site the bench to take advantage of views, or to offer a secluded place for reading, contemplation, or a quiet chat.

The contrast between natural stone and the angular shapes of a home help soften the home’s impact. Come by the stone yard to get inspired! We have a huge selection of natural stones, for the ultimate in personalization. Hand-pick from our collection of natural stones to create exactly the unique and naturalistic look your clients are looking for!